In 2023, workers at API’s Dandenong warehouse held a militant four-week picket line against corporate giant Wesfarmers. Their solidarity won a massive package including a 7 immediate pay rise followed by three years of increases, permanent jobs for striking casuals, and uncapped redundancy protection, finally giving API workers greater certainty for their futures.
After four intense weeks on the picket line, members of our union at the API warehouse in Dandenong achieved a powerful victory against Wesfarmers, one of AustraliaÕs largest corporations. API workers, essential to the supply of medicines and health products for Priceline and other pharmacies, demanded fair pay and respect for their contributions. Standing together in freezing weather, our members from both the warehouse and the admin office held strong, securing a transformative four-year agreement. This includes a 7% pay rise in the first year, followed by 4%, 3.5%, and 3.5%, as well as permanent positions for casuals who joined the strike, uncapped redundancy pay, a COVID recognition payment, and protections for injured workers.
This win was hard-fought and shows the strength of our members when united against corporate giants like Wesfarmers and how they can unite to improve their lives For many, it was a defining experience in standing up for fair treatment, as they refused to accept a deal that would have left them falling further behind with the rising cost of living. By taking on Wesfarmers and winning, our members sent a clear message: essential workers will not back down when it comes to securing a fair wage and conditions.